build off

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'build off' is not usually used in written English. The phrase you are likely looking for is 'build off of', which is used to indicate that one person or action builds upon something that someone or something else has done. For example, "This project builds off of the research conducted by the previous team."

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

We expect to build off that.

The New York Times

He'll just continue to build off that".

The New York Times

Rose and Pavlik build off each other.

The New York Times - Sports

We want to build off that".

The New York Times

We just need to build off this".

The New York Times - Sports

Just hopefully build off of today".

The New York Times - Sports

We have to continue to build off that".

The New York Times - Sports

Hopefully, we can move forward and build off it".

The New York Times - Sports

Upton can build off a game like Friday's.

The New York Times - Sports

We wanted to build off that, open up a new way of looking at the brand".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

So it responded by requiring developers to build off-street parking for their tenants.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In less formal contexts like conversations or informal writing, "build off" can be used effectively. However, be mindful of your audience and the desired tone.

Common error

A common mistake is using "build off" in formal writing where "build off of" is more appropriate. Always consider the audience and context to ensure the phrase aligns with the required level of formality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "build off" functions as a phrasal verb, indicating the act of using something as a foundation for further development or expansion. It suggests a process of growth and improvement based on an existing base, as seen in Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

22%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "build off" functions as a phrasal verb to describe the act of using something as a foundation for further development. Although frequently used and understood across various contexts, including news, media, and informal settings, it's essential to recognize that Ludwig AI advises "build off of" is considered more grammatically correct for formal and academic writing. To avoid errors, remember to assess your audience and the context to ensure that your choice aligns with the desired level of formality. While "build off" is widespread, employing "expand upon", "develop further", or "extend from" can enhance clarity and formality. By understanding these nuances, you can effectively use "build off" in appropriate situations while maintaining grammatical accuracy in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

expand upon

Suggests a more detailed development of an existing idea or concept.

develop further

Implies taking something already in progress and enhancing it.

extend from

Indicates that something new originates from and adds to a base.

advance from

Suggests moving forward from a particular point, often with improvements.

augment with

Means adding something to enhance or improve what already exists.

capitalize on

Focuses on using an existing advantage or strength for further gains.

leverage from

Implies using an existing resource or situation to achieve a better outcome.

take advantage of

Means using an opportunity or existing situation for one's benefit.

draw upon

Suggests using something as a source or foundation.

spring from

Indicates that something originates or emerges from something else.

FAQs

Is it better to say "build off" or "build off of"?

While "build off" is frequently used, especially in informal contexts, "build off of" is generally considered more grammatically correct and is often preferred in formal writing.

What does "build off" mean?

The phrase "build off" means to use something as a base or foundation to develop something further or expand upon it. It implies taking an existing idea, concept, or achievement and adding to it to create something new or improved.

How can I use "build off" in a sentence?

You can use "build off" to indicate that you are using something as a starting point. For example, "We can "build off this" initial design to create a more comprehensive solution."

What are some alternatives to "build off"?

Alternatives to "build off" include phrases like "expand upon", "develop further", or "extend from". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.